The best Christmas present we got?  Our brand new baby boy, Cao Long, who just came to us three days ago from Cambodia.  We waited months for him; we didn't think we would ever get him, but last week, the adoption agency called to tell us that the adoption had gone through; so now, as a result, we have a baby boy!

Cao is absolutely beautiful!  

He is so much bigger than he was when we first saw his adorable little face courtesy of a photo the adoption agency had sent us.  It was instant love.  He is now  a year old, getting ready to walk and talk.  We have had to do some quick "baby-proofing" so he doesn't accidentally hurt himself or get into trouble; babies are naturally curious, and they can quickly get into a jam if parents aren't careful.

Cao doesn't know but maybe three words: "Mamma", "Da-Da", and "Bah" (we are guessing this means "Ball" or "Boat").  Otherwise, he is our silent little Buddha, big black eyes taking everything in as he struggles to adapt to his new family, not to mention, his new surroundings.

At night, Cao cries; it takes a lot of cuddling and singing to him to calm him.  We are hopeful that one day, he will soon start to settle down as he gets used to his new home here in America and gets used to so many things.

Of course, Fern and Avery, our children (they are six and ten), are thrilled to have a new little brother to love.  Already they've taken to fighting about who's turn it is to take care of him, changing his diaper, feeding him, playing with him.

It is interesting to try to keep them occupied and calm as we remind them that Santa Claus is watching; they'd best be on their best behavior.  

After many months of speculation, uncertainty, home studies, doctor's appointments, and such, we can now finally breathe a sigh of relief, especially now that our little boy is here.  It is the best Christmas present we could have ever gotten.  Most people get clothes (or toys if they're kids): we got a little boy from Cambodia for Christmas!!

It is going to be the merriest Christmas of all for our little family, which has grown by one.  We are so thrilled that little Cao Long is with us!!  He is more than we could have ever imagined!